HENRY C. SANBORN SCHOOL HANDBOOK 2007—2008 Be Somebody Principal Patricia I. Barrett 90 Lovejoy Road Andover, MA 01810 978-623-8860 Student Absence Line: 978-623-8861 DIRECTORY ASSISTANCE Sanborn Elementary School ………………………………..…. 623-8860 Principal Patricia I. Barrett Sanborn FAX Line………………………………………….….... 623-8866 Sanborn Clinic /Absence Line……………………………...….. 623-8861 Sanborn Learning Specialist—Barbara Bunn………………... 623-8862 Sanborn Evaluation Team Facilitator—Sarah Whyte……….. 623-8869 Sanborn Speech/Language Specialist—Ginny Champagne. 623-8863 Sanborn PTO President—Tracy Callahan…………………… 474-0575 Superintendent— Dr. Claudia Bach………………………….. 623-8501 Interim Assistant Superintendent—Susan Nicholson……….. 623-8506 School Transportation Coordinator—Mim McLaughlin……... 623-8510 Snow Line…………………………………………………...…... 623-8502 Andover High School…………………………………………… 623-8600 Bancroft Elementary School…………………………………… 623-8880 Doherty Middle School…………………………………………. 623-8750 High Plain Elementary School…………………………………. 623-8900 Shawsheen Elementary School……………………………….. 623-8850 South Elementary School………………………………………. 623-8830 West Elementary School……………………………………….. 623-8800 West Middle School…………………………………………….. 623-8700 Wood Hill Middle School……………………………………….. 623-8925 School Committee Arthur Barber, Chair…………………………………………….. 474-0380 Richard Collins………...………………………………………… 475-6264 Anthony James……...……………………...…………………... 247-8980 David Samuels………….……………………………………….. 683-5333 Debra Silberstein………………………………………………... 470-3634 Table of Contents INTRODUCTION From the Principal's Desk……….……….. 4 Andover Vision……………………………. 5 Sanborn Vision/Climate for Learning….... 5 SCHOOL PROCEDURES AND GENERAL INFORMATION Administrative Office Hours………………. 6 Lines of Communication………………….. 6 School Hours………………………………. 6 Attendance…………………………………. 7 Absence Notification………………………. 7 Early Dismissal…………………………….. 7 Note from Home Required When..………. 7 Excessive Absences……………………….. 7 Family Vacations……………………………. 7 "No School" Announcements……………… 8 Emergency School Dismissal……………… 8 Playground and Recess……………………. 8 Dismissal……………………………………. 9 Discipline……………………………………. 9 Homework Policy…………………………… 10 Home and Hospital Tutoring………………. 10 Student Lunch………………………………. 10 Dress Code…………………………………. 10 Clothing……………………………………… 11 Lost and Found…………………………….. 11 Electronic Games/Walkman/Other………. 11 Lockers……………………………………… 11 Transportation……………………………… 11-12 Visitors and Volunteers……………………. 12 Visitor Parking……………………………… 12 Student Responsibility……………………. 13 Curriculum and Instruction……………….. 13 Progress Reports/Conferences………….. 13 Physical Education………………………… 13 Instructional Assistants…………………… 14 Learning Specialist……………………….. 14 Reading Support Teacher……………….. 14 Technology Resource Teacher………….. 14 Chapter 766……………………………….. 14 Classroom Placement…………………….. 14 Health Services……………………………. 15-16 Media Center………………………………. 16 School Involvement……………………….. 16 Parent Teacher Organization…………….. 17 School Improvement Council…………….. 18 Special Events……………………………… 18 Smoking……………………………………. 18 APPENDIX A. Andover Elementary Schools Code of Behavior 19-21 B. Andover Public Schools Harassment Prevention and Response Policy………………………. 22-24 C. Special Education……...……………………….. 25-26 D. Memorandum of Understanding: Andover Public Schools, the Andover Police Department, and the Essex County District Attorney's Office…… 27 E. Andover Public Schools Non-Discrimination Statement…………………………………… 28-29 F. Information on the Request for Criminal Offender Record………………………………………… 30 G. Notification of Asbestos Reinspections…………… 30 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Does Your Child Know……………………… 31 Sanborn School Map………………………… 32 CORI Request Form…………………………. 33 Dear Sanborn Parents, Welcome to the Sanborn Community! The purpose of this handbook is to provide information relative to the policies and procedures of Sanborn School. Please take a moment to review these pages with your child to become familiar with school guidelines. Hopefully, this handbook will cover questions you might have about school procedures and regulations and provide you with important phone numbers. The appendix of this handbook contains policies and procedures that we are required by law to distribute. They contain regulations regarding student behavior and discipline, harassment, discrimination, and the "zero tolerance" policy for drugs, alcohol, weapons and violence. While some of these policies may not seem relevant to an elementary school setting, their purpose is to ensure a safe educational environment for all children. Your feedback and questions are always welcome. Please do not hesitate to call the school office if you need additional information or clarification on anything that is included in this document. Home-school communication is valued in our school community. Respectfully on behalf of the Sanborn Faculty, Patricia I. Barrett Principal 4 .ANDOVER VISION The Andover Public Schools is a student-centered, family oriented system with clear beliefs and high expectations. Ever-mindful of our purpose, we value the uniqueness of each student who enters our classrooms. We strongly believe that every child can learn and that the world of ideas belongs to every child. All students need and deserve the same high-quality education. As a system, we are committed to developing life-long learners who value themselves, who respect our environment and the diversity of its people, and who are prepared actively to carry out their responsibilities as world citizens. To these ends, our program will ensure literacy, creativity, teamwork, wellness, and the ability to solve problems. All of our graduates will know how to learn; all of our employees will lead, educate, and inspire. We are a community of learners, leaders, and educators The Sanborn Community... CREATING A CLIMATE FOR LEARNING Sanborn reflects the pride and commitment of a community to its youth. The staff and principal are committed to providing a caring, nurturing, exciting place of learning. An essential component is to provide a climate which promotes self-esteem, a sense of community, and a strong desire for perpetual learning. Fostering high standards has been and must remain a high priority for the Sanborn staff, students, parents and community. High standards of performance, staff morale, and public confidence are essential. The Sanborn Vision is summed up in these words: excellence, equal educational opportunities for all and the shaping of the whole child academically, socially and morally. Our educational vision calls for constant striving to help each child achieve his/her potential. Our delivery of quality education addresses the various levels and types of cognitive abilities and learning styles as well as differences in developmental stages. And, our ever changing and ever expanding curriculum is continuously reassessed to meet the needs of our 21st Century learner. RESPECT RESPONSIBILITY RESOURCEFULNESS REFLECTION 5 ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE HOURS Miss Barrett, the Principal, has an open door policy for which an appointment is not required each Tuesday from 9:00—10:00 a.m. A call to the school stating that you will drop by is not required but is appreciated. Any topic related to Sanborn School or to education in general may be covered during these informal visits. For longer discussions, please call the school office for an appointment. LINES OF COMMUNICATION We all recognize the importance of an active and effective partnership with the home. At Sanborn, we encourage regular communication, active parental involvement in the school, and shared decision making and problem solving related to your child. When concerns arise regarding a child in the classroom, whether it is about grades, homework, teacher/ student relationships, etc. the following procedure is recommended: • Parent(s) should contact the teacher directly. • Parent(s) and teacher should discuss the concerns and work together toward a resolution. • If, after a reasonable time, the issue is not resolved, the parent(s) should contact the principal. • A meeting involving the parent(s) and the principal should be held. At each step, the parent(s) should allow time for change to take place. It is understood that a reprisal to the student, parent or teacher would be inappropriate during the course of problem resolution. Other people who may be helpful include: • The learning specialist provides support to teachers and parents related to curricular and instructional issues. She can also help answer parents' questions about curriculum and system-wide elementary practices. • The school adjustment counselor will be able to help you with a range of developmental and emotional issues. The counselor is also aware of services in the school and in the community and can help you access these resources. • Other administrators and resource people are listed throughout this booklet. SCHOOL HOURS Children may enter the building at 8:40 A.M. The school day begins at 8:45 A.M. Morning kindergarten hours are 8:45-11:15 A.M. Afternoon kindergarten hours are 12:15-2:45 P.M. Students arriving after 8:45 A.M. should be escorted by a parent to the main office and signed in by that parent. Youngsters should not arrive before 8:15 A.M. as there is no adult supervision before that time. Children should not enter the building before 8:40 A.M. unless they have prior permission from the teacher. During inclement weather, students may enter the building after 8:15 A.M. and go directly to the cafetorium to be supervised. The academic day begins after attendance is taken at 8:45 A.M. and ends at 2:45 P.M. When children have a 'half day' for early release, dismissal begins at 11:45 A.M., with morning kindergarten released at 11:45 A.M. and no kindergarten in the afternoon. No lunch is served on early dismissal days. 6 ATTENDANCE Regular school attendance is essential to the success of the educational program. It is important for the child to develop a positive attitude about punctuality and consistent attendance in school. Every day missed sets children back and creates stress. ABSENCE NOTIFICATION The attendance policy requires parents to call the school clinic before 8:40 A.M. at 623-8861, to inform the school of a child's absence. When calling please give your child's name, grade, teacher, and the reason for the absence. Upon returning to school, the student must provide a written explanation to the teacher describing the reason for the absence. Medical absences of more than five (5) days require a doctor's note. EARLY DISMISSAL Students should not be dismissed from class except in the cases of illness or injury. It is suggested that doctor and dentist appointments be scheduled after school hours. If a child must be dismissed during the school day, a note must be sent from home on the morning of the dismissal. It should specify the time the child is to be picked up and by whom. The student should be met at the school office at the appointment time, and signed out in the log provided. The person meeting the child may be required to show some identification to the school secretary. Upon returning to the school the student should sign the log to indicate his/her return to the building. Regular dismissal is at 2:50 P.M. A NOTE FROM HOME IS REQUIRED WHEN 1. There is a deviation from the child's normal way of returning home after school. 2. A child has been absent. 3. A child is tardy. 4. A child is to be dismissed for any period of time. 5. A child requires a temporary excuse from physical educational or outdoor recess (A note from the doctor is preferred). EXCESSIVE ABSENCES In accordance with Section 315.1 (c) of Chapter 766 regulations: "Any child who is absent without medical excuse for more than fifteen (15) days in any quarter" will be referred by the principal to the 766 Evaluation Team Facilitator for evaluation. FAMILY VACATIONS The School Committee does not condone family or student vacations while school is in session. (See also "Homework Policy.") The attendance policies above are enforced consistently within each school. For further information, please refer to the "Andover Public Schools Attendance/Tardiness Policy" which is available in the school office. 7 "NO SCHOOL" ANNOUNCEMENTS It is the policy of the School Department to close or delay the opening of school only in case of extreme weather or travel conditions; otherwise school will be held. The widely varying conditions in the several areas of Andover make it difficult to reach a decision equally fair to all. Therefore, when schools are open on stormy days, parents are urged to exercise personal judgment as to the wisdom of sending their children to school. Announcements relative to closing schools will be made over the Andover Education Channel, Cable Channel 10 and radio stations listed below starting at 6:00 A.M.. Parents and pupils are requested to refrain from calling the fire department, police department, and the school department offices to inquire about school sessions. "NO SCHOOL" ANNOUNCEMENTS Radio WBZ 1030 AM 106.7 FM WEEI 590 AM 103.3 FM WHDH 850 AM 94.5 FM WCCM 800 AM WLLH 1400AM TV WBZ Boston 4 WCVB Boston 5 WHDH Boston 7 WXNE Boston 25 WNDS Derry, NH 50 Cable Television -Channel 10 EMERGENCY SCHOOL DISMISSAL If weather conditions become hazardous while children are in school, or if an emergency arises in the school building, the School Administration may call for an early dismissal. In this case, students will be dismissed from school and sent to their homes. The secondary schools are dismissed before their younger sisters and brothers. Parents should make arrangements for the safe arrival of their children at an alternate home in case their home is empty. PLAYGROUND AND RECESS Students arriving at school between 8:15 and 8:40 A.M. play outdoors when weather permits; during bad weather they proceed to the cafetorium. The period between 8:15 and 8:40 A.M. is supervised by adults. Students should not be on school property before 8:15 A.M. Morning and afternoon recesses occur daily and are determined for each class at the beginning of the school year. Outdoor recess will be held whenever possible. In cases of inclement weather, recess is held in the classrooms. It is our policy that if a child is well enough to go to school, he or she is well enough to participate in all school activities, including recess. The playground is supervised, but the responsibility for appropriate behavior rests with the students. The playground and indoor recess rules, as outlined in the Code of Behavior are discussed in school and should be reviewed at home. Students are expected to treat the playground with respect and to behave with consideration for other children. Playground maintenance is the responsibility of the Town Maintenance Department, and all questions or problems about equipment or grounds should be directed to them or to the principal. 8 DISMISSAL Dismissal begins at 2:45 P.M.. Students with permission to ride bicycles and walkers are dismissed from the front lobby at 2:50 P.M. so that they may safely cross the school driveways before buses and cars begin moving. Next, first buses are loaded from the loop outside the main door. Carpool students exit the building from each wing and are directed by their supervisors to the carpool loop adjacent to the playground. In order to ensure student safety, please follow the direction of the teachers on duty. Parent pick-up in the office will accommodate parents who occasionally need to pick-up their children for medical or other appointments that are scheduled close to the end of the school day. A note must be sent to your child’s teacher on the day of the dismissal. In these instances, your child must be picked up before 2:45 and you must come in to the office to sign him/her out. All parents are welcome to pick up their children in the carpool line in the Kindergarten loop. Second bus students are supervised in the cafetorium until their buses arrive. No child will be released to anyone other than his/her parent without a written note from home. Any adult to whom a child is released may be asked to show some form of picture identification. Because of the large number of children riding each bus, no child will be allowed to ride on a bus other than the one to which he/she has been assigned. For additional information please refer to “Transportation.” DISCIPLINE The Andover Public Schools' Code of Behavior and Discipline Process for Elementary Schools is contained in Appendix A. Please refer to this document if you have any questions concerning the standards of behavior at Sanborn School. I ask that you read over the Code of Behavior and discuss it with your child. Guidelines for conduct on buses are listed in the Code of Behavior under Bus Conduct Rules. All students who ride a bus are expected to exhibit good conduct and courtesy on the bus and at the bus stop in compliance with the bus code as developed by the Andover School Committee. Riding the bus is a privilege easily revoked if a student misbehaves, is not courteous, or he/she endangers the health or safety of others. All bus drivers have printed forms to report violations to the administration. The responsibility for appropriate behavior on the playground rests with students. The playground and indoor recess rules, as outlined in the Andover Public Schools Code of Behavior are discussed with students in school and should be reviewed at home. 9 HOMEWORK POLICY Homework is a useful discipline in developing and maintaining needed skills, training students in good work habits, increasing self reliance and teaching students to budget study time. It is also designed to reinforce what is covered in class. Homework policies in individual classrooms are outlined by the teachers at the beginning of the school year. The following provides a general overview of homework plans: Assignments For grades 1-2, Language Arts and Mathematics homework is assigned a minimum of twice a week. For grade 3, Language Arts and Mathematics homework is assigned a minimum of three nights a week. For grades 4-5, Language Arts and Mathematics homework is assigned a minimum of four nights a week. Additional long-term projects in these subjects and occasional assignments in Science or Social Studies may be given at the discretion of the teacher. Late Work and Make-up Work Make-up work or extra help will be provided if the student is ill. Teachers are not expected to provide homework in advance for students leaving on vacation. The school will indicate material covered and assignments missed during the absence after the child’s return when requested by a parent. HOME AND HOSPITAL TUTORING The Andover Public Schools provide home/hospital tutoring "to any child who, in the judgment of the child's physician, will have to remain at home or in a hospital . . . for a period of not less than fourteen schools days . . ." To receive tutoring services, the parent or guardian should present a physician's note to the school nurse who will notify the principal. A tutor will be sent to the home or hospital. STUDENT LUNCH Lunches are available on opening day and thereafter in our cafetorium. Hot lunch, which includes milk costs $2.25. Menus are published in the Andover Townsman and the Lawrence Eagle Tribune. If milk is to be purchased with a lunch from home the cost is 50 cents per day and is paid directly to the cafeteria staff at lunchtime. Lunch boxes and bags containing cold lunches should be marked clearly with your child’s name. We recommend reusable lunch bags or boxes for environmental reasons. Parents are encouraged to prepay for meals by check (payable to Andover Public Schools) on Mondays. Please send daily lunch money in a marked and sealed envelope, wallet or change purse in the early grades. Beginning in late September, the Andover School Department will implement Meal Magic, which is an automated payment program. You may provide a healthy snack for recess at midmorning if you wish. Lunch is not served on early dismissal days. DRESS CODE Students are expected to be well-groomed and appropriately attired for school activities. The style of dress or appearance is generally determined by the student and parents. However, clothing that is disruptive or distracting to the educational process or a danger to the health or safety of a student is not permitted. Sneakers are required for physical education classes. 10 CLOTHING Articles of clothing, such as coats, hats, boots, and mittens should be labeled with your child's name. The time of year and daily activities should be taken into consideration when your child is dressing for school. Backpacks or tote bags are necessary to help the students carry books and other items to and from school. Children are not allowed to wear their hats inside the building. LOST AND FOUND Lost valuables are kept in the office. Other articles are collected in a large box which is kept at the end of the main hallway, across from the gymnasium. Parents and students are encouraged to check this box regularly. Mid-year and at the end of the school year, unclaimed articles are donated to charity. Please label lunch boxes, wallets, sneakers, and all outer clothing with your child's name. ELECTRONIC GAMES/WALKMAN/OTHER Children may not bring electronic games, cell phones, portable stereos, or other electronic equipment to school. In addition, because of safety concerns, yo-yos, roller-blades, skateboards, and roller-skates, may not be brought to school. Likewise, students may not bring tools, knives, or any other sharp objects to school. Students who do bring such potentially dangerous objects to school may be subject to discipline, including suspension. LOCKERS All children in grades K-5 are provided with a school locker. Children are reminded to keep their lockers clean and neat with the doors closed at all times. Students are not allowed to bring locks to school. TRANSPORTATION The safe transportation of Sanborn students to and from school is a primary concern, whether the mode is by foot, bicycle, car or bus. It is important for children to be taught at home to assume responsibility for their own safety. Children should know their full name, address and telephone number. They should be trained to follow the shortest way to school by way of public streets. They should also know how to obey traffic rules, be encouraged to go directly to school and return immediately from school, and be taught never to accept rides from strangers. Parents should review the following procedures with their children: Cars When parents arrive to drop off students in the morning, they should enter the horseshoe driveway in front of the building and park along the right curb. No drivers should double park or leave their cars parked in the front loop. If you need to come in to the school you must park in the lot on the side of the school. Children should always exit/enter cars from the curb side. They should never cross the horseshoe driveway to exit/enter a car. At afternoon dismissal no cars are allowed in the front loop. Parents arriving for carpool should line up in the loop adjacent to the playground. As additional cars arrive, they should enter the parking lot in the rear of the school next to the upper soccer field, turn around and line up along the playground. This 11 should keep all carpool vehicles safely on school property. Walkers All students who walk to school are dismissed in patrol lines. Children may be excused from patrol lines if a written parental request is received by the office. Walkers should remember to cross streets only with a crossing guard. Bicycles Children in grades three and up are allowed to ride bicycles to school at the discretion of their parents. Bicycle riders must have a written note of permission renewed annually on file in the school office and must wear a helmet to enjoy this privilege. The school provides bicycle racks but assumes no liability for damage, loss, etc. Any reported infraction of bicycle safety rules can result in the loss of the bike riding privilege. The safety rules are: 1. Bikers must obey all rules of the road as reviewed by parents, bike safety officers and/or school bike safety coordinators. 2. At the close of the school day, bikers will be dismissed just prior to walkers and should leave the school grounds promptly to minimize confusion. 3. Children riding a bike to school must wear helmets. Buses The time and location of school bus pick-ups is published in the Andover Townsman the week before the opening of school. Bus transportation is available to children who live a mile and a half from school. Only authorized children may ride buses and only on the bus routes to which they have been assigned. Guidelines for conduct on buses are listed in the Andover Elementary Schools' Code of Behavior. Riding the school bus is a privilege; violation of bus rules may result in suspension of a student's bus riding privileges. VISITORS AND VOLUNTEERS For safety purposes, any non-school personnel must report their presence to the office upon arrival. All visitors must sign in and wear a visitor's badge. Important messages or deliveries to your child should be left with the school secretary. In this way, disruptions to children's learning are kept to a minimum. Parental involvement and interest in a student's schooling is vital to his/her success. Sanborn School provides a wide variety of opportunities for involvement throughout the school year. All volunteers must report to the office, sign in, and wear a volunteer badge. All parent volunteers must undergo a CORI check. See Appendix F. VISITOR PARKING Visitors should use the parking lot near the main entrance to the school. During the school day, there is no parking in either loop. At the direction of the Andover Fire Department, there is no parking in the front loop during any school sponsored event to allow for required access by emergency vehicles. 12 STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY Our Student Responsibility Program, with its recommended class meetings, provides a framework for student government, shared responsibility and student involvement in problem solving and decision making. The Students and teachers mutually solve issues raised by either, helping to give students a sense of pride and ownership in the day-to-day life of the school. Students are taught limits and the consequences of exceeding them; responsible peer/group decision making is role played and discussed. Developing self-esteem and ultimately, self-discipline, are the primary goals of this process. Parents are asked to review the Sanborn Code of Behavior with their children. Parents and our school adjustment counselor are most supportive of our Student Responsibility Model and help to reinforce the nurturing, warm environment. The Student Council is composed of students from each class in grades 4 and 5. Student Council is designed to encourage participation in the formulation and enforcement of school rules and regulations, to develop school spirit activities, and to provide opportunities for students to volunteer within Sanborn and the Andover community. CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION A major responsibility of education is to bring out the best in every child. Sanborn's concern is for both those served in regular education and those served in special needs programs. The Sanborn student body is one which includes both an academically talented and a special needs population. Our goal and our practice is to offer rich academic and social opportunities for all of our students. Inclusion of all students, one of Sanborn's continuing goals, is a model which provides for effective academic and social interaction within the regular classroom of students with differing abilities and levels of achievement. The entire Sanborn Staff is committed to furthering this inclusion goal. We have found that our students in mixed groups learn from many models, have better self-images, and appreciate, rather than denigrate the differences among them. Sanborn staff members are always aware of individual learning styles and attempt to vary teaching approaches to accommodate all students. The principal, learning specialist, special needs liaison, and grade level teams meet regularly to discuss the children's support and progress. PROGRESS REPORTS/CONFERENCES A written progress report is issued in grades K-5 three times a year. Progress reports are sent home in December, in mid-March, and on the last day of school in June. Teacher-parent conferences are scheduled for early in November. The goal of the conference is to discuss mutual expectations for each child early in the year and informally report on the child's adjustment to the new school year. Prior to the November conferences, a pre-conference form will be sent home. The purpose of the form is to facilitate communication between you and your child's teacher. In grades K-1, a conference is held in lieu of a report card for the first marking period. Additional conferences may be scheduled at your request. PHYSICAL EDUCATION To ensure a safe and healthy environment, students will need sneakers and appropriate clothing for the scheduled activity. Jewelry, including hoop earrings, and watches should not be worn on days when your child is scheduled to attend Physical Education classes. If for any reason a student is unable to participate because of illness or injury, a note from a parent or doctor is required. 13 INSTRUCTIONAL ASSISTANTS Instructional Assistants are paraprofessionals who are assigned to specific teams or curriculum areas. Their main responsibility is to provide assistance to students under the direction and guidance of a classroom teacher. They may work with individual students, small groups or with a teacher in a whole classroom setting. They are not responsible for the planning or evaluation of students' work. These assistants are also responsible for monitoring and supervising during lunchroom times and recess. They correct students' papers, keep student records updated, and participate with the teacher or teaching team to maintain school rules and regulations. LEARNING SPECIALIST There is one learning specialist assigned to Sanborn School. Her main task is to monitor and evaluate the curriculum as it relates directly to student progress. She works closely with teachers and teaching teams to decide upon appropriate materials, instructional strategies and the pacing of student achievement. She tests all incoming first grade students for placement within the curriculum areas. Each marking period the learning specialist gathers information to assess the status of the various curricula. She also researches and coordinates special new programs. She coordinates all achievement testing programs. She meets with parents and is responsible for disseminating information relating to curriculum and testing. READING SUPPORT TEACHER Sanborn School has one reading support teacher. The reading support teacher will: work regularly with teachers and students to prevent and/or remediate reading failure; recommend, model and supervise implementation of preventative classroom accommodations; conduct demonstration reaching lessons in the area of reading; act as a peer coach, providing feedback to classroom teachers; provide frequent home-school communications; and monitor student achievement in reading programs. TECHNOLOGY RESOURCE TEACHER There is one .8 technology resource teacher at Sanborn School. The technology resource teacher works with classroom teachers to design and develop student learning activities that integrate computing and technology into all curriculum areas; co-teaches with the classroom teacher to instruct students in the use of technology for problem-solving, data collection, communications, presentations and decision-making; and instructs teachers in the use of technologies, including digital cameras, scanners, the internet, computer software and hardware. CHAPTER 766 Sanborn's Special Education Program is overseen by the principal, the learning specialist and the evaluation team facilitator. Students experiencing school difficulty may be referred by their teacher or by their parents for a Chapter 766 Evaluation. When the evaluation is completed, the team, which includes the parents, regular education teachers, learning specialist and the Chapter 766 specialists, meet to discuss the results of the assessments. When a student is found to be eligible for specialized instruction, an individualized educational plan is developed to meet his/her needs. See Appendix C for additional information. CLASSROOM PLACEMENT OF STUDENTS All our elementary schools follow similar procedures to create balanced classes for the following school year in terms of numbers and representation of children. Teams at each grade level usually include the current classroom teachers, the school adjustment counselor, learning specialist, resource room teacher, and school principal. Some teams may include the school nurse or other school staff. Many factors are considered in the determination of classes, such as balance by gender, academic and other talents, and special needs of children. Parents are asked not to request specific teachers, but are asked to fill out a questionnaire about their child for use in the placement process as well as by the next teacher. 14 HEALTH SERVICES School Nurse The Sanborn School Health Clinic is located in the main office area. There is an LPN (License Practical Nurse) on duty daily and an RN (Registered Nurse) available by telephone daily. Immunizations All children enrolled in the Andover Public Schools must be fully immunized as required by Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Immunizations are reviewed periodically and maintained in the school’s clinic. The School Immunization Law is specific and requires one or more certificates from a physician (or parent in the case of religious exemption) that children have been "successfully immunized," or exempted for health reasons, against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, hepatitis, poliomyelitis, measles, mumps, and rubella. The term "successfully immunized" means within the recommendations published by the Department of Public Health or a disease-specific diagnosis by a physician. Accidents and Illness In case of an accident or illness, the nurse or health assistant will administer first aid and will notify the parents when necessary. Emergency forms, including the names of people, local and known to the student, who will be able to care for the student in the event that parents cannot be reached, must be complete and accurate. If any numbers or contacts change please notify the clinic with the new information as soon as possible. Criteria for sending a student home: Criteria for sending a student back to school following illness: • Fever • Fever free for 24 hours • Vomiting or diarrhea • Diarrhea free for 24 hours • Contagious diseases • Vomiting free for 24 hours • Head Lice • Nit free after being treated for Head Lice. Before a student returns to school, the nurse in the clinic must check his/her head. Andover Public Schools and the town of Andover have a No Nit Policy. Medications Andover Public Schools has a Medication Policy in place. All medical treatment, even the administration of aspirin, is considered outside the province of school responsibility. Prescribed medication should not be taken during school hours if it is possible to achieve the medical regime at home. If medication must be taken during school hours, the following requirements must be met before any medication will be given by school personnel: 1. ALL medications, INCLUDING over-the-counter medications, require an order from a licensed prescriber which includes the student's name, diagnosis (if not in violation of confidentiality), the name and dosage of the medication, the route and frequency of administration, the date and duration of the order, any specific directions for administration, and the prescriber's name and signature. 2. Parents or guardians must sign a parental/guardian medication permission form which can be obtained at the School Clinic. 3. ALL medications must be delivered to the clinic by a parent/guardian or other responsible adult in the original pharmacy or manufacturer labeled container. 4. Prescription containers must be labeled by the pharmacy with the student's name, date, prescription 15 number, name and dosage of the medication, the licensed prescriber's name and full instructions for administration. 5. No student will be allowed to take their own medication or carry their medication on them without specific orders stating this fact from the licensed prescriber and the approval of the school nurse. The Andover Public Schools will not assume any responsibility for students not in compliance with these policies. Please call the school nurse if you have any questions regarding these policies. Screening Vision, hearing, height, and weight screenings are conducted for all grades. Scoliosis screening is conducted annually for grade five students. Parents will be notified prior to the scoliosis screening dates. These programs are mandated by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Pediculosis screening is conducted as situations arise. If a problem is detected in any of these areas, parents will be notified. Physical Examinations Massachusetts state law requires a current physical examination for all students. Forms are sent to all students entering kindergarten and grades three, seven and ten and to all students who are new to the school system. This report form should be completed by a physician and returned to the school clinic. School Insurance Insurance is available at the beginning of the school year. The school does not realize any profit, does not endorse the plan, and requests that parents read the policy carefully. The application form is sent home for parental review. It is necessary to return the form whether or not the policy is purchased. MEDIA CENTER The Sanborn Media Center is staffed by a media specialist and assistant who extend and complement established curriculum through a comprehensive program. The library houses an extensive collection of print and non-print materials which are circulated to individuals and classrooms along with audio-visual equipment such as VCRs, projectors, and cassettes. The Sanborn academic program is totally integrated with media services. SCHOOL INVOLVEMENT We urge parents to become involved in your child's school. Research tells us that a child's educational experience is enhanced when parents take an active interest in the education of their children. There are a number of ways that you might show an interest: •Discuss your children's day at school, perhaps asking them about one thing they enjoyed. Reading to your children is always beneficial. •Attend school presentations, parent teacher meetings, classroom presentations, special events, performances and other activities. The monthly Yellow Pages will keep you informed. •Become an active member of the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO). PTO meetings provide valuable information to parents and offer opportunities for input and feedback about the school and system wide decisions. •Volunteer. Sanborn offers opportunities for parents to help on either a regular basis or whenever you have a little time. A volunteer program sign up is distributed in the fall and again at the grade-level Back to School Nights. See Appendix F For CORI requirements. 16 PARENT TEACHER ORGANIZATION The Sanborn Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) organizes volunteers for the school, publishes a school newspaper, the Yellow Pages, and sponsors educational, fund raising and social activities. The PTO consists of the General Membership (Sanborn parents and teachers) and an elected Executive Board. Each member of the Board is responsible for a specific task or program. The membership meets monthly to conduct business and review suggestions. All parents and teachers are welcome to attend these meetings. All Sanborn parents are encouraged to join the PTO during its annual fall membership drive. Anyone wishing to work in support of the organization is welcome. The school secretary will direct parents to the appropriate PTO representative. The following are some of the activities or functions of the PTO. For a complete listing, please refer to the September edition of the Yellow Pages. Yellow Pages A newspaper published monthly, reporting what is happening at Sanborn, including a calendar of activities for the upcoming month. Volunteers Jobs include helping in a classroom, working in the library, or using your special talents around the school. Notices are sent home at the beginning of the year asking for volunteers. Room Parents Parents help the teachers organize special parties during the school year and collect PTO membership money at Back to School Night in the fall. Notices are sent home at the beginning of the year asking for Room Parents. Hospitality Members provide refreshments at PTO meetings and other school functions. Ways and Means This group works to raise funds to support PTO activities. Among the events PTO has sponsored in the past are: Spooky Fun Fair, Wrapping Paper Fundraiser, Book Fair, Auction and Magazine Sale. Notices are sent home prior to each function. For anyone who would like to help on these events there is a sign-up sheet at our PTO meetings prior to each event. The money that is raised by the Ways and Means Committee goes toward Curriculum Enrichment programs for all grade levels, the Special Projects Fund to support the yearly theme, the Teachers' Fund for the purchase of supplemental classroom materials and playground equipment. PTO Board A sign-up sheet is sent home in April for those who are interested in joining the PTO Board. All parents are encouraged to join us and meet new people. 17 SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT COUNCIL The Massachusetts School Reform act of 1993 calls for the establishment of a school council at each elementary, secondary and independent vocational school in the Commonwealth. Councils are to assist principals in: *adopting educational goals for the schools; *identifying the educational needs of students attending the school; *reviewing the annual budget; and *formulating a school improvement plan. Membership is made up of school administrators, teachers, parents and community members. Parents are selected through a vote of the parent community. The election process is set up through the PTO. SPECIAL EVENTS Harvest Festival The entire school participates in a Harvest Festival just prior to Thanksgiving. Students and their families donate food items, plants, and other small gifts to be distributed to elderly persons in the community. A school assembly is held as part of this celebration of sharing. Outdoor Education In the fifth grade, students spend several days at an environmental school located about two hours away from Andover. Parents and students are responsible for the funding of this trip. Students who choose not to go attend regular classes at Sanborn. Further information about this trip is available from the fifth grade teachers. Before/After School Enrichment Clubs Special interest-based clubs are offered through our Explorations program by staff and community members for 6-8 weeks for students in all grade levels as available. SMOKING In accordance with the Educational Reform Act of 1993, smoking is prohibited in all schools, on school grounds, and at all school-sponsored activities whether held on or off school property. 18 APPENDIX A. ANDOVER ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS CODE OF BEHAVIOR General: 1. Be considerate and helpful to one another. 2. Respect your property and that of others. 3. Obey all school rules and by your good example, influence the behavior of others. 4. Walk quietly everywhere in the building. 5. Keep your school and its grounds clean. 6. Use polite language at all times. 7. Wait quietly and behave properly in your designated area during indoor recess. 8. Sell things only through the school store. 9. Chew no gum in school. Audience Behavior: 1. Listen! Behave properly and be courteous to other members of the audience and the performers or speakers. 2. Applaud to show your approval. 3. The only acceptable response is clapping your hands. Cafeteria: 1. Wait quietly in lunch line. 2. Have your money ready. 3. Eat in assigned areas only. 4. Leave you area clean and neat. 5. Use good table manners. 6. Empty your tray in designated area. 7. Talk quietly with your table partners. 8. Walk in the cafeteria. 9. Eat all you food and snacks in the cafeteria. 10. Show respect to the lunchroom supervisors and cafeteria employees. 11. Wait to be dismissed by the lunchroom supervisor. Playground: 1. Play in designated areas. 2. Bring soft handballs only to use on the playground. 3. Use good sportsmanship. 4. Wait your turn to use the equipment. 5. Walk to line when recess is over. 6. Label all items you bring to school. Vandalism: 1. Take care of your property and that of others. 2. Return all items you find to the Lost and Found. 3. Be certain that you do not mar or deface property. 4. Notify teachers, supervisors, or the principal when you see someone destroying or defacing property. 5. Bring no knives or sharp objects that could cut or mark desks, clothing, or anything inside or outside. 6. Do not write on wall or on any surface of the building. 19 Walkers: 1. Walk only on sidewalks. Be certain not to walk in streets or on private property. 2. Look both ways before you cross the street. Bus Students: 1. Ride only the bus to which you are assigned. 2. Obey the driver in all matters at all times. 3. Be courteous to others while loading, riding, and leaving the bus. 4. Arrive at the bus stop on time and wait for the bus on the curb or shoulder of the road. 5. Cross highways or streets only in front of the bus. Move away from the front bumper of the bus approximate 8 feet so the bus driver can observe you crossing. Do not run or dash into the street or road without looking both ways event thought the bus driver has traffic stopped. 6. Avoid trespassing on private property and being noisy. 7. Board the bus in an orderly manner only after the bus has come to a full stop. 8. Take your seat promptly. 9. Remain seated until the bus comes to a full stop and leave in an orderly fashion. 10. Avoid actions that might distract the driver and result in an accident. 11. Keep your voice low; be certain there is no shouting, whistling, rough-housing, pushing, fighting, or throwing objects. 12. Be certain not to extend your arms or any other parts of your body out of the bus window. 13. Ask the driver's permission before opening the windows. 14. Help keep the bus clean and report any damage in the bus to the driver. 15. Be certain not to eat or chew gum on the bus. 16. Keep books and bundles out of the aisles and do not carry heavy objects on the bust that might cause injury to other students. 17. Report any violation of these rules to the bus driver. Indoor Recess: 1. Play quiet games at your seat. 2. Talk quietly with your friends. Smoking: In accordance with the Educational Reform Act of 1993, smoking is prohibited in all schools, on school grounds, and at all school-sponsored activities whether held on or off school property. Discipline Process Now that you have reviewed the Andover Code of Behavior, please note the consequences of misbehavior: General and Playground Process: 1. Students who misbehave will sign their discipline cards at each grade level. A. First signing within a marking period --loss of one recess, note sent home to parents, signed and returned by them. B. Second signing within a marking period --loss of two recesses, note sent home to parents, signed and returned by them. Office notified in writing. C. Third signing within a marking period --detention, form sent home to parents, signed and returned by them, student/teacher conference with principal or assistant principal, signed detention form sent to office. D. Fourth signing within a marking period may result in in-school or out-of-school suspension. 2. Any serious violation of the Code of Behavior which endangers the health or safety of self or others may result in immediate detention or suspension. In such cases, the parent will be notified immediately. 20 Audience Behavior Process: 1. If a student acts improperly, he or she will be excluded from the performance or activity. 2. If a second situation arises, this will mean exclusion from future performances during this marking period. Cafeteria Process: Students will be excluded from lunchroom and assigned to eat in a designated area. Vandalism Process: 1. Students will be required to clean up any writing or marring of any wall or surface during their own time. 2. Students will be charged for all vandalism damage or defacement. 3. All vandalism acts will be reported to the office where they will be recorded. 4. All vandalism incidents will be reviewed at a conference with the principal and the students. Bus Process: 1. Offense: Lighting match, cigarette lighter, lighter or other flammable object, setting fire or burning any person or clothing. Punishment: Bus privilege shall be suspended for balance of school year. 2. Offense: Defacing bus or destroying property; opening emergency door without authorization. Punishment: 1st Offense -Suspension -1 month; 2nd Offense -Suspension -3 months; 3rd Offense - Suspension for balance of school year with a minimum suspension of 5 months. Any time a student defaces a bus or any part thereof or destroys property, restitution must be made by his/her parents and student will not be allowed on bus after his/her punishment has been served -until restitution is made. 3. Offense: Smoking on the bus -Elementary K-5. Punishment: Suspension -1 month with reinstatement of privilege only after conferences between Principal and parents/guardian. 4. Offense: Fighting, molesting others, throwing objects other than paper or hats. Punishment: 1st Offense -Suspension -1 month; 2nd Offense -Suspension -2 months; 3rd Offense - Suspension remainder of school year with a minimum suspension of 5 months. 5. Offense: Pushing, shoving, indecent or abusive language, failure to obey bus driver, throwing objects, I.e. paper, hats, scarves, other misconduct. Punishment: 1st Offense -Suspension -1 week; 2nd Offense -Suspension -1 month; 3rd Offense - Suspension remainder of school year with a minimum suspension of 5 months. Summary: As you can see, the process is consistent and fair. One stage of the process is detention. If the Code of Behavior and first stages of the process are not effective, the school will provide detention. The student will serve the detention directly after school. Parents are responsible for providing transportation home afterwards. In-School Suspension: Students will be allowed to attend school but will be suspended from all classes and activities. Students will complete their work in a designated area of the main office. Lunch and recess will also be held in the office. Suspension: Students will not be allowed to attend school for a period of time. At the conclusion of the suspension the student and his/her parents are required to meet with the principal. 21 B. ANDOVER PUBLIC SCHOOLS HARASSMENT PREVENTION & RESPONSE Policy Preamble: The Andover School Committee is committed to the prevention of harassment based upon sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation. This policy has been developed to ensure that the educational opportunities of all students, and the employment conditions of all employees, are not threatened or limited by such harassment, and to ensure that individuals are free to work, learn, and develop relationships without fear of intimidation, humiliation or degradation. This policy defines: unlawful and prohibited conduct; reporting and investigation procedures; and disciplinary sanctions. It shall be a violation of this policy for any employee or student of the Andover Public Schools to harass another employee, adult member of the school community, student, applicant for employment or other person with business to conduct with the Andover Public Schools, through conduct and communications as defined below. It shall also be a violation of this policy for students to harass other students or staff through conduct or communications of a harassing nature as defined below. Unlawful and Prohibited Conduct Defined: Unlawful and prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, actions which are related to a person's sex/gender, race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation when such actions are unwelcome and unsolicited by the recipient. Harassment based on a person's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation consists of conduct that: 1. Has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidation, hostile, humiliating, or offensive work or education environment; 2. Has the purpose of substantially or unreasonably interfering with a person's work or academic performance; 3. Or otherwise adversely effects a person's academic standing or employment opportunities. Sexual/Gender Harassment: Unlawful and prohibited conduct, consisting of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, sexually motivated physical contact, or other verbal or physical conduct, or communication of a sexual nature when: 1. Submission to, or rejection of, such conduct or communication is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment, or education or academic achievement; 2. Or, submission to, or rejection of, such behavior is used as a basis for employment or academic decisions; 3. Or, such behavior unreasonably interferes with an individual's work or academic performance, or creates an intimidating hostile, humiliating, or offensive work or educational environment. Examples of prohibited behaviors shall include, but not be limited to, the following examples: -Verbal conduct: name calling, teasing, jokes or other derogatory or dehumanizing remarks, by an individual or group as in verbal bullying; -Physical contact: unwelcome touching of a person or person's clothing or any other act of physical intimidation or bullying; -Written conduct: notes, cartoons, calendars, graffiti, offensive or graphic posters, pictures, book covers, drawings, computer terminal messages of an offensive nature, or designs on clothing meant to offend another on the basis of gender, race, color, national origin, age, disability or other identifying characteristics; -Visual conduct: suggestive looks, leering, gesturing of a suggestive nature; 22 -Blackmail: as in behavior with the intention to control another individual's scholastic achievement or employment status: The foregoing list was to provide some concrete examples, but is not meant to be all inclusive. Responsibilities: All students, teachers, administrators, and other personnel of the Andover Public Schools are responsible for creating and maintaining an environment that is free of harassment and other offensive behaviors and for conducting themselves in a manner consistent with the spirit and intent of this policy and in cooperating with any investigation of alleged harassment. The Andover Public Schools is responsible for the dissemination of this policy and training. The school district responsibilities will ensure: 1. That this policy shall be conspicuously posted throughout each school building in areas accessible to students and staff; 2. This policy shall appear in the student handbook; 3. The school district will develop a method of discussing this policy with students and employees; 4. The district will appropriately train administrators and others who are assigned and responsible to implement the procedures of this policy; 5. What one person might consider as acceptable behavior may be viewed by another as harassment. It is, therefore, suggested that a person make clear to the harasser that the behavior is offensive and must cease. The subject of harassment should report alleged violations of this policy to the appropriate personnel in accordance with the guidelines and procedures which accompany this policy. 6. This policy will be reviewed for compliance with state and federal law. Reporting Sexual Harassment: Students: Students who believe that they are victims of harassment should report such occurrences to a teacher, counselor, or administrator who will in turn notify a complaint manager, or students may report directly to complaint managers. Notice of each school's compliant managers, whose role is defined below, will be posted in a prominent location in each school. Employees: All Andover School System employees must respond to a student's complaints of harassment by notifying the building principal or appointed complaint managers. They must always take every complaint of sexual harassment seriously. Employees who believe that they are victims of harassment should report such occurrences to their immediate supervisor, the building principal, the Superintendent of Schools, the Personnel Director or his/her designee. Investigation and Corrective Action: The Andover Public Schools will investigate all complaints of harassment. Such investigation may include discussions with all involved parties, identification and questioning of witnesses, and other appropriate actions. Reports of sexual harassment and related information will be kept confidential to the extent consistent with the school's obligations under law. 23 Each building principal will appoint two or more complaint managers, at least one of each gender. (Principals may also serve as complaint managers themselves). The complaint managers shall be responsible for investigating complaints of harassment, communicating with the principal, recommending discipline as a consequence of harassment, and filing reports to the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee. Complaint managers will attend training sessions and workshops as directed. Notice of each school's complaint managers will be posted in a prominent location in each school. If the Andover Public Schools determines that harassment has occurred, it will take appropriate action to end the harassment. Steps which may be taken include, among others, an apology, direction to stop the offensive behavior, counseling or training, warnings, suspensions, exclusion from school-related activities, transfer, remediation, expulsion from schools or termination from employment. Disciplinary action will be consistent with the requirements of applicable collective bargaining agreements, Massachusetts and federal laws, and other district policies. Any staff member or student who is dissatisfied with the results of progress of the school's investigation may discuss his/her dissatisfaction directly with the building principal or the Superintendent of Schools at the School Administration Building, 36 Bartlet Street, Andover, MA 01810, (978-623-8501) or the Personnel Director, at the same location, (978-623-8530), or his/her designee. Retaliation: The school administration will discipline or take appropriate action against any student, teacher, administrator, or school personnel who retaliates in any form against a person who makes a complaint or reports or participates in an investigation of a harassment complaint. Acts of retaliation may result in immediate disciplinary action up to and including expulsion or dismissal, even if underlying harassment is not proven. Retaliation is an independent prohibited and unlawful act. Investigation of Child Abuse: Under certain circumstances, harassment of a student may constitute child abuse under Massachusetts Law, M.G.L. Ch. 119, Section 51A. The Andover Public Schools will comply with Massachusetts Law in reporting suspected cases of child abuse. The Andover Public Schools will report suspected criminal activity to the local police. Right to Alternative Complaint Procedures: These procedures do not deny the right of any individual to pursue other avenues of recourse which may include filing charges with the Massachusetts Department of Education, 350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148, (617-338-3300); Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination, Boston Office, One Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02188; (617-727-3990); Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, 10 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02114, (615-565-3200); and the Office of Civil Rights of the U. S. Department of Education, J. F. K. Federal Building, Room 1875, Boston, MA 02203 (617-565-1340); initiating civil action or seeking redress under criminal statutes and/or federal law. Legal References: Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 Massachusetts General Laws: c.151B (prohibiting employment discrimination based on gender); c.214 s.1C (right to be free from sexual harassment); c.76 s.5 prohibiting educational discrimination in pubic schools); c.265 s.43 (prohibiting stalking); c.269 s.17 (prohibiting hazing); c.119 s.51A (reporting of suspected child abuse). Other relevant statutes and case law. 24 C. SPECIAL EDUCATION 1. Kindergarten Screening (28.03 (1) (d)) In the fall, as part of the process of getting to know our new kindergarten students, a developmental screening is conducted. Regular classes are cancelled and your child is scheduled for a 30-minute appointment to complete the screening activities with his/her teacher. The screening consists of a brief check of the child’s language, vision, hearing, cognitive development and motor coordination. Most children develop in these areas at a rate that is within the typical range for their age. For some children, however, the screening may indicate that more information about your child’s abilities would be helpful. The earlier we know of any areas of concern, the sooner we are able to bring appropriate help and support to a child. Parents will be informed of the results of their child’s screening and any recommendations for follow-up. Screening is a required activity under the special education regulations. 2. Instructional Support (28.03 (3)(a)) The Principal in each school is responsible for promoting instructional practices that are responsive to students with diverse learning styles and a wide range of academic and social skills. This instructional support can include remedial services, accommodations and individual intervention plans for students as well as consultative and professional development services to the staff. Each schoolhouse provides a forum for child study teams and/or staff support teams that meet on a regular basis to brainstorm and problem solve possible methods to assist students who are experiencing some difficulty in the general education program. Such efforts, supports and accommodations are provided and documented before a student is referred for a special education evaluation. If, however, despite various interventions, the schoolhouse team is unable to resolve the concerns for a student satisfactorily, and suspects the presence of a disability, the student is referred for evaluation. 3. Referral and Evaluation Process If a parent is concerned about their child’s progress in school, they should bring their concern to the attention of their child’s teacher, the learning specialist or directly to the principal so that staff are aware of the concerns and can implement some instructional support strategies. If attempts have been made to address the concerns and the child continues to experience difficulties, then a referral for a special education evaluation can be made. Such evaluations are made in order to determine whether the child’s lack of progress is related to a specific educational disability. Parents will be asked to provide their written consent for the evaluation. When the evaluation/testing is complete, a team meeting will be held to review the results and to make recommendations as to whether the child is eligible for special education services. If the child is eligible, an Individual Education Program (IEP) will be developed and describe the services the child will receive. Special education services, in addition to classroom accommodations, can include, for example, specialized reading or math instruction, speech/language therapy, occupational or physical therapy, adaptive physical education, school adjustment counseling, specialized consultation, etc. The principal with the help of the special education program head or liaison is responsible for the special education program at (schoolhouse name) and is always available to answer questions about special education or to provide additional information. 25 4. Important Terms FAPE: Free and Appropriate Public Education All sped students are entitled to FAPE. Appropriate is defined by whether the program is reasonable designed to provide educational benefit. LRE: Least restrictive Environment This is also the right of special needs students to be educated to the maximum extent appropriate with their non-disabled peers in the general education program. Inclusion is the practice of implementing LRE. Access is a key term. All disabled students (sped and 504) have the right to services, supports, accommodations, etc. that allow them to access the general curriculum and the activities of the school community as a whole. Discipline for Special Education Students All students are expected to meet the requirements for behavior set forth in this handbook. However, Chapter 71B of the Massachusetts General Laws, known as 603CMR 28.00: Special Education, requires that additional provisions be made for students who have been found by an evaluation TEAM to have special needs and whose program is described in an Individualized Educational Plan (I.E.P.). The following additional requirements apply to the discipline of special needs students: 1. The I.E.P. for every special needs student will indicate whether the student can be expected to meet the regular discipline code or if the student's handicapping condition requires a modification. Any modification will be described in the I.E.P. 2. The Principal (or designee) will notify the Special Education Office of the suspendable offense of a special needs student and a record will be kept of such notices. 3. When it is known that the suspension(s) of a special needs student will accumulate to ten days in a school year, a review of the I.E.P. as provided in Section 333 of the 603 DMR 28.00: Special Education Regulations will be held to determine the appropriateness of the student's placement or program. The TEAM will make a finding as to the relationship between the student's misconduct and his/her handicapping condition and either: a) design a modified program for the student; or b) write an amendment to provide for the delivery of special education services during the suspension and any needed modification of the I.E.P. relative to discipline code expectations. In addition, the Department of Education will be notified as required by law, and the procedures promulgated by the Department of Education for requesting approval of the alternative plan will be followed. 4. In the absence of a modified discipline code (as described in #1 above) all suspensions which are less than 10 days (cumulative) in a school year shall be subject to the requirements described in this handbook. 26 D. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING: ANDOVER PUBLIC SCHOOLS, THE ANDOVER POLICE DEPARTMENT, AND THE ESSEX COUNTY DISTRICT ATTORNEY'S OFFICE The Andover Public Schools, the Andover Police Department, and the Essex County District Attorney's Office agree to coordinate their response to violent, delinquent, or criminal acts by students and to alcohol and other drug use, which occur on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events. To ensure a safe educational environment, this collaborative effort between school administration and law enforcement supports "zero tolerance" for drugs, alcohol, weapons and violence. Non-students involved in such acts on school premises or at school events are to be reported as students are. The full agreement is available in the Principal's Office. A. Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in Chapter ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal. B. Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal. C. Any student who is charged with a violation of either paragraph (A) or (B) shall be notified in writing of an opportunity for a hearing; provided, however, that the student may have representation, along with the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses at said hearing before the principal. After said hearing, a principal may, in his discretion, decide to suspend rather than expel a student who has been determined by the principal to have violated either paragraph (A) or (B). D. Any student who has been expelled from a school district pursuant to these provisions shall have the right to appeal to the superintendent. The expelled student shall have ten days from the date of the expulsion in which to notify the superintendent of his appeal. The student has the right to counsel at a hearing before the superintendent. The subject matter of the appeal shall not be limited solely to a factual determination of whether the student has violated any provisions of this section. E. When a student is expelled under the provisions of this section, no school or school district within the commonwealth shall be required to admit such student or to provide educational services to said student. If said student does apply for admission to another school or school district, the superintendent of the school district to which the application is made may request and shall receive from the superintendent of the school expelling said student a written statement of the reasons for said expulsion. 27 E. ANDOVER PUBLIC SCHOOLS NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT Andover Public Schools does not discriminate in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its services, programs and activities, on the basis of race, color or national origin, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI); on the basis of sex, in accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; on the basis of disability, in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and Titles I and II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA); or on the basis of age, in accordance with the Age Discrimination Act of 1974 (Age Discrimination Act). Furthermore, in accordance with M.G.L. c. 76 s.5, Andover Public Schools does not exclude or discriminate against students in admission or in obtaining its advantages, privileges, or courses of study on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation. To file a complaint alleging discrimination or harassment by the Andover Public Schools on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age, or to make inquiry concerning the application of Title VI, Title IX, Section 504, the ADA, the Age Discrimination Act, and their respective implementing regulations, please contact: Ms. Susan Nicholson, Interim Assistant Superintendent of Schools or Ms. Candace Hall, Director of Human Resources Andover Public Schools, 36 Bartlet Street, Andover, MA 01810, Ms. Nicholson at 978/623-8506, or Ms. Hall at 978/623-8530 Inquiries concerning the applicability of the aforementioned Federal laws and regulations to the Andover Public Schools may also be referred to the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCR), JW McCormack POCH, Boston, MA 02109-4557, telephone 617/223-9662, TTY 617/223-9695. Concerns relating to the implementation of the Massachusetts equal educational opportunity law (M.G.L. c. 76 s.5) may be directed to the Massachusetts Department of Education, Program Quality Assurance, 350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148, 781/338-3700. Instead of filing a complaint with the Andover Public Schools, a complaint many be filed directly with OCR within 180 days of the alleged discrimination or harassment. In addition, a complaint may be filed within OCR within 60 days of receiving notice of final disposition of the complaint by the Andover Public Schools, or in certain instances, within 60 days of receiving a final decision from the Bureau of Special Education Appeal (BSEA). Please note that a complaint filed with OCR is limited to issues of discrimination and harassment. OCR has no jurisdiction over compliance with state and federal special education laws. 28 GRIEVANCES PROCEDURES FOR DISCRIMINATION VIOLATIONS Any student or school employee who feels that he or she has been discriminated against because of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or age with regard to admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its services, programs and activities should utilize the following procedure to register a grievance: 1. Students or employees should submit any allegations of discrimination in writing to their building principal for consideration. The complaint should specify the nature of the complaint in detail. 2. The principal or his/her designee will investigate the allegations and respond to the complaint in writing within fifteen (15) school days of the receipt of the written complaint. 3. If the matter is not resolved, the complainant may appeal in writing to Grievance Coordinators, Ms. Susan Nicholson, Interim Assistant Superintendent of Schools, or with respect to employment-related issues, Ms. Candace Hall, Director of Human Resources. The coordinator will meet with the complainant and respond within fifteen (15) school days of receipt of the written complaint. 4. If at the end of ten (10) school days following the written response from the coordinator the matter remains unresolved, the complainant has the right to appeal to the superintendent of schools in writing. 5. The superintendent will investigate the complaint and respond in writing to the complainant within fifteen (15) school days after having received the complaint. 6. If the matter remains unresolved, the complainant may appeal in writing to the school committee within ten (10) school days of the receipt of the superintendent's response. The school committee will meet within fifteen (15) school days to review and consider the matter. The committee will respond to the complainant in writing within five (5) school days following the meeting. Since it is important that grievances be processed as rapidly as possible, the number of days indicated at each level should be considered a maximum, and every effort should be made to expedite the process. Any person who wishes information concerning the application of Federal discrimination laws and regulations may contact Ms. Susan Nicholson, Interim Assistant Superintendent of Schools or Ms. Candace Hall, Director of Human Resources at the Andover Public Schools, 36 Bartlet Street, Andover, MA 01810, 978/623-8506 or 978/623-8530. Inquiries may also be made to the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, JW McCormack POCH, Boston, MA 02109-4557, 617/223-9662 or TTY 617/223-9656. Inquiries related to the Massachusetts equal educational opportunity law may also be made to the Massachusetts Department of Education, Program Quality Assurance, 350 Main Street, Malden, MA 02148, 781/338-3700. 29 F. INFORMATION ON THE REQUEST FOR CRIMINAL OFFENDER RECORD The Commonwealth of Massachusetts recently passed a new law regarding criminal record checks effective February 25, 2003. Under Chapter 385 of the Acts of 2002, An Act Further Protecting Children, all schools are required to conduct criminal background checks on current and prospective employees, volunteers, school transportation providers and others who may have direct and unmonitored contact with children. A copy of this new law is available for your reference at http://www.state.ma.us/legis/laws/ seslaw02/s1020385.htm. Therefore, as a volunteer or potential volunteer in your child’s classroom, you will need to complete the Request for Criminal Offender Record Information (Cori Request Form) located in this handbook and return it to the school office. Please be advised that it takes about four to six weeks for such a check to be completed. If you plan to volunteer at all this year, you are urged to complete the form and return it to the school office as soon as possible. All CORI reports will go directly to the building principal. No other staff member will have access to these files. If you have any question pleas feel free to contact the school at 978-623-8860 or the Human Resources Department at 978-623-8530. If we do not have a current form on file, please complete the CORI Request Form found in this handbook and return to Sanborn School’s main office. G. NOTIFICATION OF ASBESTOS REINSPECTIONS In compliance with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), in 1988, all of the public schools were inspected for asbestos-containing building materials. The inspection findings and the asbestos management plan for our school has been on file in the administrative office since that time. The EPA requires us to perform reinspections of the asbestos-containing materials every three years. During the month of February accredited asbestos inspectors conducted the latest of the three-year reinspections. An accredited management planner reviewed the results and recommended actions we should take to safely manage each asbestos-containing material in our building. Since 1988 we have been removing asbestos-containing building materials whenever possible, in full accordance with all regulatory and safety procedures. The materials that are left are in good condition and we will continue to maintain them in place as recommended by the accredited management planner. The results of the reinspection are on file in the management plan in the school’s administrative office. Everyone is welcome to view these anytime during normal school hours (M-F, 8:00 a.m.—4:30 p.m.). The Asbestos Program manager, Ralph Knight, of the Plant and Facilities Department, is available to answer any questions you may have about asbestos in our building at 978-623-8285. 30 DOES YOUR CHILD KNOW… •the telephone numbers for all Emergency Calls? •the telephone number for Poison Information? •how to call the fire department or police? •the name of his/her doctor and dentist? •the company name and any phone number where his/her parents work? •the name and number of another adult to call if we cannot reach you? •which neighbors to turn to in time of trouble? •where you plan to be during the day? And, does one of your backup neighbors know if you are planning to be out of town for the day? •where a key is hidden to get into your house and how to use it? •a box of baking soda can put out a stove fire? •where the meeting spot is if your house is on fire and everyone runs outside? •how to reach you even if there is a sitter in the house and what the sitter should and should not do? •what to say when someone calls when you are not home? •what to do when he/she comes back home and you are not there? •how to get a snack? •how and if to use the stove or oven? •whether he/she should go to another's house? •if there is a note telling him/her where you are? •not to panic if you are delayed? 31 Sanborn School 2007—2008 P2 P1 C3 C4 C5 C6 Intermediate Health 4 5 5 5 Resource Class Room C Court Studio/ C2 C1 Book 4 Art 4 Room School Adjustment/ L8 L6 L7 OT Speech- Language Tutoring L5 Primary B5 Music B4 3 B6 Resource L3 Room -4 B Boulevard B3 3 3 B2 2 Computer 2 B1 Lab 2 Library Gym Kitchen Cafeteria Office Nurse Learning Specialist Principal ETF A6 A7 A8 All Day K Reading 1/2 Day K 1 Specialist/ Book Room A Avenue A2 A5 A4 A1 All Day K A3 Testing Staff Room 1 1 *Map not to scale. 32 CORI REQUEST FORM GANDPS CH 385 Andover Public Schools has been certified by the Criminal History Systems Board for access to all criminal case data including conviction, non-conviction and pending court activity. As an applicant/employee/volunteer for the position of ___________________ for The Andover Public Schools, I understand that a criminal record check will be conducted for conviction, nonconviction and pending criminal case information only and that it will not necessarily disqualify me. The information below is correct to the best of my knowledge. _________________________________________ Applicant / Employee/Volunteer Signature APPLICANT / EMPLOYEE / VOLUNTEER INFORMATION (PLEASE PRINT) Last Name _________________________________ First Name _________________________________ Middle Name _________________________________ Maiden Name/Alias (If Applicable) _________________________________ Place of Birth _________________________________ Date of Birth _________________________________ Social Security Number _________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Requested by: ______________________________________________ Signature of C.O.R.I. Authorized Employer